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1-VoIP vs Via:Talk

Monday, April 28th

2025 VoIP Service Reviews

1-VoIP Review 5 Star Rating

1-VoIP

5 Star Rating
  • Cost: $8.97 to $23.97/month
  • No long-term contracts required
  • 99.999% network uptime guarantee
  • Unlimited incoming calls
  • Voicemail with 4 access methods
  • Call forwarding, voicemail to email, whitelist/blacklist, configurable caller ID
  • Mobile app with SMS available
  • "A+" BBB rating
  • 24/7 US-based support
Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award

If you're in the market for reliable home phone service with modern features, 1-VoIP delivers exceptional value with their straightforward plans and robust call management tools. You'll appreciate their US-based customer support and impressive uptime guarantee, while features like Nomorobo robocall blocking and customizable caller ID help you stay in control of your communications. While their mobile app could use some improvements, their core home phone service is rock-solid, making them our top choice for anyone seeking a dependable, feature-rich VoIP solution that won't break the bank.

Via:Talk Review 1 Star Rating

Via:Talk

1 Star Rating
  • Cost: $15.75/month standard plan or $189 for 2-year prepaid plan. $8.95/month international add-on, plus taxes and fees
  • Monthly or 2-year contract options
  • Voice calls, voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, speed dial, call forwarding, voicemail to email/SMS, call recording, 3-way calling, call broadcasting
  • Desktop softphone application, desk phones compatible

If you're wondering who ViaTalk is best suited for, we'll save you some time - probably no one. While they've been around since 1999 and offer basic VoIP features at seemingly competitive prices, their outdated technology, poor customer service, and hidden fees make them a frustrating choice for home users. The combination of unreliable call quality, no mobile app, and an unresponsive support team that's earned them a "D-” BBB rating means you'd be better off with almost any other modern VoIP provider.

Which Home VoIP Service is Right for You?

If you're looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to make calls from home, a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service might be the perfect solution. Unlike traditional landlines that rely on physical phone lines, VoIP uses your internet connection to make and receive calls. Whether you're a remote worker needing a dedicated line, a budget-conscious household looking to cut the cost of phone bills, or someone who frequently calls internationally, VoIP can offer significant savings and flexibility.

One of the biggest benefits of VoIP is that it eliminates the need for expensive phone service plans from traditional carriers. Many services offer unlimited local and long-distance calling, while others provide pay-as-you-go options that are perfect if you only make occasional calls. Plus, VoIP services often come with features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email transcription, and even call recording - perks that typically cost extra with traditional phone companies.

The Best VoIP Services Compare VoIP Services Compare VoIP Service Reviews What are the best VoIP Services Best VoIP Service Reviews

VoIP Service FAQ

Voice over Internet Protocol or "VoIP” is a technology that allows phones to make and receive calls digitally over the Internet, without the use of the typical analog phone jacks installed in homes and businesses prior to the era of the Internet. The result is cheaper phone service than with analog phone systems because the "line” is simply whatever Internet connection you currently have. Calls are routed independently through the distributed nature of the Internet rather than through a large phone company. You also get a number of features with VoIP phones that analog phones simply don't provide.
The quality of a VoIP phone call depends on your Internet connection. If you have a slow Internet connection and a poor-quality phone, modem, and router, you'll experience about the same call quality as with a basic analog phone connection. However, if you have a good connection and choose a VoIP vendor that provides high-quality phone and Internet hardware, your calls will be much better than with analog phone systems.
The best VoIP services and phones provide high-quality audio and video calling, call waiting, call forwarding, outbound and inbound faxing, inexpensive international calling. Great VoIP services will also include an app for your mobile phone as well as for your Mac or PC, advanced conference calling features, anonymous call rejection, call blocking via allow and block lists, and on-hold music. You should also look for free shipping of hardware, monthly billing with no contracts, and high-quality, responsive, 24/7 customer support.
The least expensive VoIP services cost under $10 per month in service fees for residential use. Business VoIP services can cost considerably more depending on the number and types of features they offer. Taxes and fees pertaining to your locality also apply. Look for a VoIP service that doesn't charge a high amount for the hardware. Services that provide free calling or free hardware do exist, but are somewhat rare. Avoid contracts whenever possible so you have the option of switching to a new service on your own terms.
Contracts do exist for some VoIP services and systems. Typically, these are non-residential business-class systems that are built, operated, and serviced specifically for small, medium, and large businesses. Residential contract VoIP does exist but is usually not worth the trouble in the event that another service provider comes along that provides better service and lower cost.
One weakness of VoIP phones is that, unlike analog phone systems, when the power goes out, your Internet service typically will also be deactivated. This is due to the fact that VoIP phones rely on Internet routers and modems that are connected to electrical outlets the same way a lamp or TV is connected to power. There is no electrical power coming from a battery or through the cable Internet wires to the phone. On the contrary, analog phone lines receive electricity from the same jack and wire that connect to the phone, so when the local power grid fails, the phone company still delivers backup power to the telephone. That is why it is important to have a backup phone or mobile phone in the event of a power outage, in case you need to call emergency services.
You do not always need a computer to use VoIP systems. VoIP phones are standalone devices that receive their signal from your Wi-Fi router or are plugged directly into your Internet modem. Sometimes you'll want to chain your VoIP phone through your computer to use certain computer-related features, but it's not a requirement for most VoIP phones. To use the "softphone” application some VoIP vendors offer, you will need to install it on your computer and then turn on your computer each time you need to use it.
Yes, most VoIP plans will include the ability to port your existing numbers to their service. Many will do it for free. However, be aware that some providers will apply a fee per line for doing so. It can also take up to four weeks for a number to be ported from one phone system to another. You may be given a temporary phone number to use while the transfer completes.
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Continued from above...

However, choosing the right VoIP provider isn't as simple as picking the cheapest option. VoIP services vary widely in their pricing models and equipment requirements. Some providers require a contract, locking you into service for a year or more, while others offer month-to-month or pay-as-you-go plans.

If you're unsure about committing long-term, a contract-free option might be best. Additionally, some VoIP companies include a physical device (like an adapter that connects to your existing phone), while others are BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), meaning you'll need to purchase compatible equipment separately.

Hidden fees can also be a major drawback. Some services advertise low monthly rates but tack on setup fees, service charges, or even cancellation penalties. Some companies will "lease” you equipment and expect you to return it (or pay a $50 fee) when you cancel your service. A few home VoIP services advertise "unlimited” calling minutes despite imposing a cap, after which you'll pay per-minute. Be sure to read the fine print before signing up, so you don't end up paying more than expected.

Here are some things to consider when deciding which VoIP for home is best for you.

  • Pricing structure. Does the service require a long-term contract, or can you pay month-to-month? If you're unsure about committing, would a pay-as-you-go plan work better for you?
  • Equipment requirements. Does the provider include an adapter, or will you need to buy your own VoIP-compatible device? Are there any extra costs for setup? Do they have a mobile app so you can use your cell phone to answer calls to your home number?
  • Hidden fees. What additional charges should you watch out for? Are there setup fees, service charges, or cancellation penalties that could increase your total cost?
  • Call features. What features are included in the base plan? Will you need to pay extra for voicemail transcription, call forwarding, fax, or conference calling?
  • International calling. Do you need to make frequent international calls? If so, does the provider offer unlimited calling plans for the countries you intend to call?
  • Customer service and ratings. How responsive is the provider's customer service? What do other users say about their experience with call quality, reliability, and support? What is their Better Business Bureau rating?

Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked the best home VoIP services online. Whether you're looking for an affordable home phone replacement or a feature-rich line, we hope this review helps you find the best service for your needs.

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